Google Maps is a great navigation tool with detailed maps, real-time traffic updates, and several other features. However, like any app, Google Maps can sometimes encounter issues that prevent it from working properly. In this article, we share five ways to troubleshoot and fix common problems with Google Maps.
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- 1. Check the Google Maps Status Dashboard
- 2. Make Sure You Have a Stable Internet Connection
- 3. Update Google Maps App
- 4. Re-enable Location Services
- 5. Clear Cache and Data
1. Check the Google Maps Status Dashboard
If your Google Maps isn’t working, the first thing you need to do is check the Google Maps Status Dashboard. This tool lets you know if there are any ongoing issues with Google Maps itself.
To use the tool, go to Google Maps Status Dashboard in your browser. Once you’re on the page, look for any alerts or notices about current issues with Google Maps services. If all the services have a green checkmark with them, then the issue is likely on your end, and you can move on to other troubleshooting steps.
2. Make Sure You Have a Stable Internet Connection
If the problem is not at Google Maps’s end, then it might be your internet connection that is causing the problem. Services like Google Maps rely on stable internet connections to work on multiple tasks such as loading maps and providing real-time directions. Without this, you are likely to face delays and other similar issues.
To check if you have a stable internet connection, start by checking if other online services or internet-dependent apps are working fine on your device. For instance, you can try visiting a few websites to see if they load quickly and without issues. If they don’t, the problem might be with your internet connection. You can also try an internet speed test site to see if your connection is performing well.
If your internet connection is faulty, there are several ways to troubleshoot a bad connection. First, restart your router by unplugging it, waiting for about 30 seconds, and then plugging it back in. You can also consider moving closer to your router if you are using Wi-Fi, as it improves signal strength and stability.
3. Update Google Maps App
There is also a chance that Google Maps is not working properly because the app is out of date. App updates often include new features and bug fixes, which can resolve issues you might be experiencing.
To update Google Maps, go to your device’s app store. If you’re using an Android device, open the Google Play Store; if you’re on an iPhone, head to the App Store. Search for Google Maps and check if there’s an update available. If there is, tap the Update button and wait for the process to complete. If you see an Open button, that means your Google Maps app is up-to-date.
4. Re-enable Location Services
Are your location services turned off? As we mentioned earlier, Google Maps relies heavily on accurate location data to provide you with directions and map information.
To re-enable the location services, swipe down from the top of the screen to reveal the quick settings menu. Look for the location icon. If it’s grayed out or crossed out, it means your location services are disabled. Tap on it to re-enable location services. You may need to confirm this action in the pop-up window that appears.
Alternatively, you can also open the Settings app on your device, scroll down to find the Location settings, and click on it. Here, you can toggle the switch to turn on location services for Google Maps. Depending on your device and operating system, the steps may vary slightly.
While you are at it, we also recommend double-checking that the time and date on your device are accurate. For this, navigate to your device’s Settings, find the Date & Time settings, and ensure that the Set time automatically and Set time zone automatically options are enabled.
5. Clear Cache and Data
You can also try clearing the cache and data for the Google Maps app. Over time, the cache can accumulate outdated or corrupt data, which can lead to issues with the app’s performance. You can try clearing the cache and data to resolve these issues and improve the app’s functionality.
To clear the cache on Android, open the Settings app, navigate to Apps, and select Google Maps from the list. Tap on Storage usage. Here, you’ll see the option to clear the cache and clear data. Tap on each option to clear the cache and data for the app.
If you are an iPhone user, open Settings, and choose General -> iPhone Storage -> Google Maps. Tap on Offload App to remove the app but keep its documents and data. If you chose Offload App, you can reinstall Google Maps from the App Store to get a fresh version without the accumulated data.
Hopefully, with these steps, your Google Maps should be back on track. If the app is still encountering problems, you can reach out to the official support team and report the issue to them. Till they provide you with more information, there are several Google Maps alternatives you can try.
Image credits: Pexels. All screenshots by Zainab Falak.
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Zainab Falak –
Staff Writer
Zainab is an Actuarial Sciences graduate from Pakistan with a passion for technology. When she’s not busy writing insightful pieces on Windows and the latest tech trends, you’ll find her with her nose buried in a productivity book, always on the lookout for ways to optimize her workflow and stay ahead of the curve.
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